Morgan Freeman is one of the most iconic and respected actors in Hollywood history. Here’s a full overview of his life and career:
Morgan Freeman
Early Life
- Born: June 1, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
- Youngest of five children.
- Grew up in Mississippi and Chicago.
- At age 9, he made his acting debut in a school play.
- Turned down a drama scholarship to Jackson State University, instead joining the U.S. Air Force in 1955, where he worked as a radar technician before pursuing acting.
Acting Career
- 1960s–70s: Started with stage work and small TV appearances. He gained attention on the PBS children’s show “The Electric Company” (1971–77).
- Breakthrough: His film breakthrough came with Street Smart (1987), where his performance as a pimp earned him his first Academy Award nomination.
- 1990s Success: Rose to global fame with roles in Driving Miss Daisy (1989), Glory (1989), Unforgiven (1992), and The Shawshank Redemption (1994).
- Later Work: Became famous for roles in Se7en (1995), Amistad (1997), Bruce Almighty (2003), Million Dollar Baby (2004 – won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor), The Dark Knight Trilogy (2005–2012), Invictus (2009), Now You See Me (2013), and many more.
Distinctive Features
- Voice: His deep, resonant voice has made him one of the most sought-after narrators in documentaries and commercials.
- Typecast: Often cast as wise, authoritative, or mentor-like characters—including portraying God in Bruce Almighty and Evan Almighty.
Awards & Honors
- Academy Award: Best Supporting Actor for Million Dollar Baby (2004).
- Golden Globes & SAG Awards: Multiple wins and nominations.
- Kennedy Center Honors (2008).
- AFI Lifetime Achievement Award (2011).
- Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016).
Other Ventures
- Production Company: Founded Revelations Entertainment, which produces films and documentaries.
- Philanthropy: Actively supports arts, civil rights, and educational causes.
- Other Talents: Freeman is a licensed pilot and sailor.
Personal Life
- Married and divorced twice.
- Has four children.
- Survived a serious car accident in 2008 but continues to act and narrate.
